UPDATE APRIL 23,2025- WHITE PLAINS, Md. — The Charles County Sheriff’s Office has completed its investigation into the April 10, 2025, firearm discharge at Billingsley Elementary School, determining that the .357-caliber revolver belonged to a relative of the 9-year-old student involved. The incident, which occurred when the student accidentally discharged the weapon while reaching for a paper in their backpack, prompted an early school dismissal and raised community concerns about firearm safety. No injuries were reported, and the case has been forwarded to the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office for review.
Authorities confirmed the student had no intent to harm anyone, and the firearm was likely brought from home, where the visiting relative had left it accessible. The swift response by the classroom teacher and a nearby school resource officer ensured the weapon was secured immediately, preventing further risk.
The incident, which led to a one-day school closure and counseling services for students and staff, has prompted Sheriff Troy D. Berry to urge parents to discuss weapon safety with their children. A community meeting is planned after spring break to address ongoing concerns; details will be announced.
WALDORF, Md. — A loaded handgun discharged in a classroom at Billingsley Elementary School in Charles County on Wednesday morning, prompting an immediate response from school officials and law enforcement. According to an email from Charles County Public Schools sent to parents, no one was injured in the incident.
The incident occurred when a student, who had reportedly brought the loaded handgun from home in their book bag, was searching for a paper. The gun discharged during this action, the email stated. The student told authorities they had no intentions of harming anyone with the gun.
According to the email, a school resource officer was on site at the time of the incident and has been integral in the ongoing investigation. Additional police were dispatched to the school to assist, and Charles County Public Schools is working closely with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office to investigate the event’s circumstances further.
Charles County Public Schools announced on its Facebook page at approximately 11:30 a.m. that an emergency incident had occurred at Billingsley Elementary School. The post confirmed that all students and staff were safe and accounted for, and the school dismissed students at noon. Parents and staff were notified of the early dismissal, and the district promised to provide additional information about the emergency later in the day.
In a Facebook post shortly after the school system made the announcement, Charles County Commissioner Gilbert “BJ” Bowling posted on his public page,” The safety and security of our students is of utmost importance. I am deeply troubled by the incident that occurred today at Billingsley Elementary School, where a firearm was inadvertently discharged from a student’s backpack. The safety and education of our students is not a political issue, but rather a community concern. We must concentrate our efforts on what truly matters, setting aside political considerations and protecting and educating our children. I am confident in our Charles County Sheriffs Department and their efforts to bring resolution to this matter.”
Charles County Public Schools has a strict policy prohibiting weapons on school grounds, as outlined in its Code of Student Conduct, which is available on the district’s website. The policy states that possessing a firearm on school property can result in severe disciplinary actions, including expulsion, and may lead to legal consequences.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details about the incident, including the student’s age or whether charges will be filed.
Parents with questions about the incident are encouraged to contact the school directly. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is expected to provide updates as the investigation progresses.